Players to watch

The Portugal superstar is set to face Manchester United for the first time since his high-profile departure from Old Trafford in 2009. Ronaldo struck a stunning hat-trick in the 4-1 win over Sevilla and will be a central figure against his former club, who have occasionally shown a vulnerability to pace this season.

The England forward is in a rich vein of form, having found the net nine times in his last ten matches for club and country. Rooney's role is tactically important as he does not shy away from defensive duties, while his movement and link-up play with Robin van Persie will be equally pivotal to United's chances of grabbing a positive result.

Editor's Prediction

United travel to the Bernabeu in fine form, but their record of two wins in 20 matches in Spain does not make for encouraging reading. Although Real have been inconsistent in La Liga, they generally raise their game for occasions like these and could edge the first leg of this glamour tie.